Senators Come from Behind to Defeat Capitals in Thrilling Game

Strategic Insights -

The Ottawa Senators, led by rookie centre Alexei Yashin, came from behind to defeat the Washington Capitals 6-5, dealing a significant blow to the Capitals' playoff hopes. Yashin had a goal and three assists, including setting up Dave McLlwain's second goal of the game and scoring the tying goal himself. The Capitals' loss, their third in a row, leaves them with a 36-35-10 record and just three points ahead of the Florida Panthers and four points ahead of the New York Islanders for the final playoff berth in the Eastern Conference.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Senators' win marked their fourth win and ninth point in eight games, improving their record to 14-56-9.
  • Alexei Yashin, 20, has 29 goals and 46 assists, placing him four points behind rookie scoring leader Mikael Renberg of Philadelphia.
  • Yashin's impressive performance earned praise from teammate Dave McLlwain, who said, "He's got something to work for and that's rookie of the year and I'd love to be part of him getting that."
  • Rick Tabaracci, making his first start since spraining his right knee on February 20, allowed six goals on 18 Ottawa shots, struggling with the "ring rust."
  • The Capitals' loss to the Senators leaves them in a precarious position, fighting for a spot in the playoffs.

Statistics:

  • Ottawa Senators' record: 14-56-9
  • Washington Capitals' record: 36-35-10
  • Alexei Yashin's current stats: 29 goals, 46 assists
  • Rick Tabaracci's save percentage: 85.7% (8 games, 258 minutes played)
  • New York Islanders' unbeaten streak: 5 games (2 wins, 3 ties)
  • Ottawa Senators' most recent streak: 4 wins, 9 points in 8 games

Sources:

  • Canadian Press
  • Associated Press